Dynamic Cancellation Code for Image Processing Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing apparatus management systems lack secure methods to cancel operation restrictions, as conventional cancellation codes can be compromised, leading to unauthorized access and potential leakage of confidential information.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus with a first storage unit for registration information, a receiving unit for erasure instructions, an erasing unit to erase registration information, a restricting unit to restrict operations, a second storage unit for unique and changeable information, and a determining unit to verify cancellation information, ensuring that only authorized cancellation can occur by generating unique cancellation information each time registration information is erased.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cancellation code is used to cancel operation restriction, then the operation restriction can be cancelled, but the cancellation code can be compromised and lead to unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the parameter of the cancellation code from a static fixed value to a dynamic value that changes based on the erasure number of registration information. Each time registration information is erased, the cancellation code is regenerated with updated parameters, making it impossible to use old or stolen codes for unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The cancellation code is made dynamic by linking it to the erasure number of registration information. The code automatically updates whenever registration information is erased, transforming it from a static security token to a dynamic one that adapts to system state changes, thereby preventing unauthorized access.
2Adaptability or versatility
If registration information is stored in the apparatus, then the apparatus can execute functions, but confidential information may be leaked when the apparatus is recovered
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs preliminary action by automatically erasing registration information when the service contract expires or the apparatus is recovered. This pre-erasure action prevents confidential information from being leaked to unauthorized users while maintaining the ability to restore functions through proper cancellation code activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes registration information from the apparatus storage when contract expires or recovery is needed. By taking out the confidential registration data, the system prevents information leakage while preserving the hardware and basic functionality for legitimate use under new contracts.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the apparatus enters restricted mode after contract expiration, then confidential information is protected, but the apparatus cannot be reused without proper cancellation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements feedback by requiring the user to input the updated cancellation code after registration information erasure to reactivate functions. This feedback mechanism ensures that only authorized users can restore full functionality, maintaining security while enabling legitimate reuse under new contracts.
Data Source
AI summary
In an image processing apparatus, an HDD stores registration data, an operation unit receives an instruction requesting erasure of the registration data, and a control unit erases the registration data and restricts operations of the image processing apparatus in response to the instruction. Further, the HDD stores unique information unique to the image processing apparatus and changeable information that is changed in response to the erasure of registration data. If it is determined that a cancellation key generated by a management server and received by the operation unit is a cancellation key corresponding to the unique information and the changeable information, the control unit cancels the operation restriction of the image processing apparatus.